Lessons from the most beloved spiritual leader of our time nbsp; Lessons for Living presents the essential pastoral wisdom of Pope John Paul II. These short, eloquent selections, culled from more than two decades of the pope's writings and speeches, capture the clarity of John Paul's insight and the fervor of his faith. Each page presents an inspirational lesson that encourages us to draw closer to God, helping us live as faithful Christians in a sometimes challenging world. nbsp; Become friends to those who have no friends. Become family to those who have no family. Become community to those who have no community. May we all share what we have with one another as children of the one God who loves everyone and who offers to everyone the gift of peace. --Pope John Paul nbsp; On October 16, 1978, Karol Wojtyla ascended to the papacy and adopted the name John Paul II. Since that time, he has greeted an estimated 16 million pilgrims at the Vatican's General Audiences on Wednesdays and has touched millions of lives in his religious ceremonies, special audiences, and trips throughout the world.